“How can I make money while staying at home?” This is one of the most common questions we ask ourselves, especially when our finances are tight. During the pandemic, this question became even more relevant as many of us spent most of our time at home.
Life isn’t easy, as the saying goes. Starting a business is harder than it used to be. Gone are the days when we could easily set up a food stall at festivals, street parties, or other social events. Now, creating a kiosk at a mall involves not only expenses but also the time and effort needed to get permits, licenses, and the help of employees to make it all happen.
Another challenge is the cost of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which has become essential for businesses during the pandemic. Not only do we need to protect ourselves, but we also need to follow government safety protocols to protect our customers. Safety must be our top priority.
Given these challenges, starting a home-based business with low start-up costs is an attractive option. Such businesses don’t require a large workforce, a lot of materials, or a big space.
Finding the best business idea that fits our needs can be tough, especially when we compare today’s challenges to the pre-pandemic world. Back then, fewer restrictions made it easier to start a business.
Browsing the internet can help us find the perfect home-based business idea.
Here are a few home business ideas suggested by Max Freedman, a contributor to Business Daily:
Consultant
If you’re knowledgeable about a specific field, like business management, social media, marketing, human resources, or telecommunications, consulting could be a great option for you. The only investment you need is your expertise, intelligence, and a computer. It’s a simple way to start a business from home.
Online Reseller
If you’re into fashion, online reselling might be a great fit. You can start by selling your gently used clothes through popular platforms like Lazada or Shopee. Creating your own website or social media page is another way to grow your business. If things go well, you can find trusted suppliers to expand your inventory.
Online Teaching
The demand for online education has increased since the pandemic. Parents are enrolling their children in online classes to keep them safe and healthy. If you’re passionate about teaching, you can join a company that offers remote teaching positions. With a reliable computer or tablet and a good internet connection, you can start teaching from home.
App Developer
If you’re tech-savvy or experienced in IT, app development could be a great home business. With more people using smartphones, laptops, and other devices daily, the demand for mobile apps has skyrocketed. As a result, skilled developers are in high demand.
Online Bookkeeping
If you’re an accountant or bookkeeper, you can use your skills to offer online bookkeeping services. You can start by offering your services to friends or local businesses. Be sure to set clear professional fees and contracts to ensure your credibility.
Medical Courier Services
If you have a vehicle, you can start a medical courier business. The healthcare industry is growing, and the need for delivery services, especially in remote areas, is rising. With your vehicle and a driver’s license, you can help deliver essential medical supplies to those who can’t easily access them.
Freelance Copywriter
If you enjoy writing and have a knack for marketing, you can become a freelance copywriter. Many companies are willing to pay for blog posts, web content, or press releases. If you understand SEO, you can increase your rates by helping clients optimize their content for search engines.
Digital Marketing
As more businesses move online, the need for digital marketing services continues to grow. Many small and mid-sized companies prefer to outsource these services rather than hire an expensive in-house team. If you enjoy creating marketing strategies and helping businesses reach their target audience, digital marketing could be a great business for you. You can also explore affiliate marketing as another form of digital marketing.
Refer and Earn Programs
Some real estate developers offer “refer and earn” programs, where you can earn money by referring potential clients to their sales team. This is an easy way to make extra income, especially if you’re active on social media and enjoy networking.
Starting a home business can be one of the most convenient and manageable ways to earn money.
Remember, any business venture requires hard work, patience, and dedication. Even if you have the resources, a strong work ethic and a passion for success are essential for achieving your goals.
